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Newest Date Ideas That Will Deepen Your Relationship

It shouldn’t be difficult when it comes to finding date ideas as a couple, whether new or married. But sometimes the most overlooked part of being a couple is finding ways that will deepen the relationship. And there are ways in doing so while all tying in the fun of each other’s company. The only difference is these ideas may not be your usual cup of tea, like the movies. A relationship can’t grow by always smoothing over the surface. The only way to delve into what’s underneath is through communication and expression, which will deepen your relationship.

The idea of strengthening your relationship is through interaction – communicative interaction. Not just physical and emotional, but one on one date ideas that – for lack of better words – get you talking. And I don’t mean about the weather, family, work, the kids, or your social life. This is the time to open up on life, and a life together. If it’s already a challenge to do that, or your spouse has a difficult time opening up – it’s time to address it, and realize that more quality time needs to be spent strengthening your relationship.

Whether these ideas are not your picking for ‘fun‘, that isn’t necessarily the goal here. Yes, the time spent together should be fun – but if you can’t enjoy each other’s company, and that not be just as exciting, then there’s already something wrong with that picture. That’s why I am giving you the newest date ideas that will deepen your relationship.

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Newest Date Ideas That Will Deepen Your Relationship

1 | Take a long hike

On a nature trail, in a park, or just around the neighborhood. Not only is it a good excuse for exercise, but you can do it together. Make a habit of it, do it often or make a point to do this when you’re developing certain feelings that require attention – such as an argument. Often times, people generally like to keep moving during moments of frustration – some even use the phrase, ‘I need to take a walk’, so get the blood flowing and to clear the head. Do it together at a much needed time.

2 | Read a book together (aloud, to each other, taking turns)

A very different idea, yet has many positive benefits. It doesn’t have to be taken seriously all the time, but it also can be. Get a book that is specifically for or pertaining to your relationship/marriage. It can help you grow as a couple, like The Five Love Languages (a great read!)

Read it together, chapter to chapter. You don’t have to finish the book in one night, but much like a television series – take a chapter each day at a specific time (like after putting the kids down for the night, or when you wake up in the morning and haven’t gotten out of bed). If your spouse isn’t open to the idea (much reflecting on the fact they may feel it can be intrusive to the relationship, or implying that they are in need of ‘fixing’), calmly explain to them the learning benefits and created intimacy. Let them know this would make them feel closer to you, and closer connected.

3 | Rent a canoe or kayak

Sometimes there’s nothing better than enjoying each other’s company with the surroundings of nature. And you get to enjoy it from a different perspective – a very low key activity, which allows you both to engage in each other as well.

4 | Take a road trip

Make the plans for a few stops along the way, but also make this about time to get closer. Ignore the phone calls, the emails, and the text messages. Make this about the two of you, enjoying the open road – the limitless possibilities.

5 | Do something out of the comfort range

Couples tend to get into routine – and that’s completely normal, and healthy to some extent. But every now and then, as a couple, it’s nice to have the switch in the routine (even for just temporarily). So whatever that be: finding a new restaurant to try (or cuisine), or working out together once a week. Doesn’t have to be crazy, but it does have to be out of the norm.

6 | Paint something together

Not only will you have a masterpiece to hang up in your place, but also a reminder of the memory from that day. All you simply need are a couple artist canvases, an acrylic paint set and brushes – get your paint on together!

Really twist it up by taking a drive somewhere with a view - bring your paint supplies and a bottle of wine! Paint night!

7 | Find a place to watch the sunset

And it doesn't have to be an immaculate spot like the beach or mountain top (unless you can make that happen) - just a nice, quiet, meaningful spot you can always come back to. That spot on the lake, or along the river, that park bench, or outside a cafe where you can sit, talk and reflect.

8 | Start a garden

This is so easy my head hurts. You don't need to go all out and create a garden bed in your backyard (I mean unless you want to) - not everyone has one of those. Go shop for some cute pots, find some herbs from your local gardening store - and create a space together for 'growing' your relationship. No pun intended.

9 | Have a private picnic

And by private, I am talking somewhere else other than the measly busy playground you take the kids. If that is your only option, then make sure your children are encouraged to spend the time playing. Or go all out, in a secluded place - with wine and finger foods, or your favorite junk food necessities. The point is like having a sit down meal together, only somewhere out of the norm. And don't rush it like you would at the dinner table at home.

10 | Try out a brewery or wine tasting

It's always exciting trying new things together, especially when you can have it both ways - new and exciting, yet intimate. Again, not something to be rushed. And though it shouldn't require alcohol to open up to one another - it can help open the playing field for some. Utilize the time for something you both enjoy, and for each other.

11 | Meet at a coffee shop

If you have a favorite cafe, coffee shop or eatery. The idea literally is what is says - meet there. I know that sounds silly, but sometimes this tiny change up in your ways can create a different atmosphere when you come together. Make it a weekly thing, or time it at its convenience when you both have separate vehicles. Even if it's only your hour for lunch, but refrain from talking about work.

12 | Go window shopping

You don't have to buy anything, necessarily, but it's just a way of opening up the line of communication. Especially for young couples. Get to know each other's styles and tastes. Have fun with this one - money isn't on the line here. It gets you moving, while also enjoying going somewhere without high expectations.

13 | Cook a meal together

Often many fail to see the intimacy beyond simply cooking a meal at home together. It's usually very rushed (out of hunger), not well thought out or just in routine.

Make something unique neither of you have made (knowing it could come out tasting horrible) - just have the pizza guy on speed dial. Or make it easier on yourselves, and do something out of the norm - have a fondue night! All you need is cheese, chocolate and wine.

14 | Make a point to stay up until sunrise

Sometimes it's not about actually staying up for the sun to rise (although it is a rush, and as long as you actually get a beautiful sunrise then it's worth it) but the point could be to simply share the excitement of trying to keep each other awake. Plus, what you normally were able to easily do during the day - you can't at night! So it leaves you wondering and coming up with crazy things to do together.

I thought of a few: build a living room fort, binge on a genre of movies, create something only using kitchen scraps (whether you know it'll be great, or absolutely terrible), skinny dip (yeah, even if you have a public community pool - be daring!), create a luxury massage palace and devote hour long massages to each other, or map out any 24-hour joints and go check out the true 'night life' in your area (as long as it's safe, of course).

15 | Plan a mini all day getaway

It can be a staycation, or a day planned full of places to go and see. It doesn't have to be expensive. Visit a new town together - just to go shopping, venturing, out to eat and exploring. But an all day event is bound to have planned moments in time to open up about the things beyond your normal routines.

16 | Go primitive camping

Sometimes it's all about the unknown, and the thought of having to solely rely on one another. Now, don't go and make a point by not bring a tent, water and a cellphone. But, you know, try being primitive. Attempt to make a fire, maybe even 'pretend' to build a shelter like you would if stranded in the wild.

Yeah, that may seem like over the top. But like I said - bring the necessities just in case.

17 | Create a scavenger hunt/game

These are always a thrill. Especially when creating them yourselves ahead of time, and then actually doing them together. Use specific and memorable places between the two of you to get you started. It'll get you laughing, reflecting and letting loose your creative sides. Have fun with this one!

18 | Go stargazing

Something a little different, but again, the sole purpose isn't to just stare up into the sky. You can do that anywhere, anytime. It's the closeness of laying side by side together, close, and opening up the line of communication on a much deeper level.

19 | Build something together

A piece of furniture for your apartment, or maybe you've been wanting to remodel that kitchen for some time. Do it together - voice your opinions and wants. And make sure to compromise! Work as a team to get the job done, take notice to one another's hard work and dedication. You will really see one another in another light.

20 | Make a day using zero technology

No phones. No television. No computers. Make the day simply about the two of you. Because honestly, if you can't do that without taking a peek at your Facebook timeline for hours at a time - there might be a bigger problem than needing to strengthen the relationship. And it's time to put that to the test, lay it to rest and start making each other a sole focus and main priority once in a while.

21 | Have a bonfire

What better way to relax - and different, too. If you can't do one of those - get a patio fire bowl, and do s'mores together. Who says you have to have wood for a bonfire?

22 | Lay by the pool

This is always a go to. My husband and I must lay by our pool at least once every weekend. Make it interesting - grab a few crazy pool floats like this cow, a pizza float or this 2-person island cabana. Seriously, all you need is a pina colada!

23 | Go to an art gallery or museum

Whether it's a mutual enjoyment, or only one. There's something about art that can get two people talking and expressing - even if it isn't about the art itself. So even if none of it is taken seriously, walking around and viewing the works together can help you spark conversation.

24 | Stay in bed all day together

Who says you can't stay in bed all day? Who says you have to do chores? Skip adulting for one day - just lay in bed, chow down on your favorite snacks and watch your favorite shows or movies. Read a book together, play a game or just simply talk. Just don't forget to let the dog out!

25 | Make a scrapbook

Use old pictures, even if it's baby photos of each of you. Swipe a few, start creating a crafty album from scratch. Make a point to photograph special moments, fun times and travel destinations throughout your journey. If you're active enough, make a point every quarter of the year to sit down and scrap it in your scrapbook - reflecting on those memories together.

If you're not setting aside quality time for your relationship, the truth is you are eventually only unveiling it's surface. You can't talk in a movie theater, or during a game of bowling. You can't connect in a loud crowded setting, on a roller coaster at a theme park or when the kids are jumping, crying and screaming in that restaurant. There comes a time when your relationship will need to be deepened, and that doesn't always come naturally. These date ideas are ways to connect on a deeper level, and help strengthen any deepening relationship.